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The Sun
6 hours ago
- Health
- The Sun
Holistic approach key to appropriate acne care
PETALING JAYA: In conjunction with Acne Awareness Month, a leading dermatologist has urged Malaysians to move beyond creams and antibiotics, and adopt a more holistic approach that considers gut health, diet, mental well-being and the emotional toll of the condition. 'Acne is a multifactorial skin condition that extends far beyond visible lesions. A holistic approach not only improves outcomes but also addresses the emotional burden carried by many patients,' said Consultant Dermatologist Dr Teeba Raja, who also serves as president of the Malaysian Allergic Contact Dermatitis Subcommittee. She explained that emerging research has drawn attention to the gut-skin axis, where imbalances in gut bacteria – known as gut dysbiosis – can drive skin inflammation. 'Increased intestinal permeability, or 'leaky gut', allows endotoxins such as lipopolysaccharides to enter the bloodstream and trigger inflammatory responses in the skin. 'While gut-directed therapies are not yet part of standard acne treatment, patients with both acne and gastrointestinal symptoms may benefit from addressing underlying gut issues,' she said. Teeba also highlighted the role of diet, noting that high-glycaemic foods and dairy have been linked to acne severity. 'Low-glycaemic diets help by lowering insulin and IGF-1 levels – hormones that stimulate oil production and skin cell growth. 'Dairy, especially skim milk and whey protein, can aggravate acne in some individuals due to its hormonal effects.' She added that probiotics, particularly strains such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, may help reduce skin inflammation, but should be seen as complementary rather than primary treatments. Mental health is another critical yet often overlooked aspect of acne care. 'Many patients experience depression, anxiety and social withdrawal due to acne. Some studies have found it to be more psychologically distressing than chronic conditions like asthma or diabetes. 'In Malaysia, adolescent surveys show acne is a common cause of emotional distress and social stigma.' Teeba called for routine mental health screening during dermatology consultations. 'We should normalise checking in on patients' emotional well-being. Tools such as dermatology-specific quality-of-life questionnaires can help identify those who need psychological support.' She recalled one case involving a 19-year-old male with severe nodulocystic acne. 'After years of failed treatments, he was started on isotretinoin. In six months, not only did his skin improve dramatically, but his self-esteem and overall quality of life returned. It was a reminder that acne care can be life-changing when done right.' Teeba also warned against common self-treatment mistakes, such as over-cleansing, pimple-popping and frequent product switching. 'These habits worsen inflammation, damage the skin barrier and increase the risk of scarring. Patients should be educated to follow a consistent, gentle routine and apply treatments across the entire acne-prone area, not just on visible spots.' She pointed out that social media has become a double-edged sword in acne management. 'Teens are constantly exposed to filtered images and miracle-cure content, which creates unrealistic expectations. Some abandon effective treatments in favour of viral trends. We must teach patients to critically evaluate online content and follow credible sources.' While public awareness of acne in Malaysia is growing, stigma remains a persistent barrier. 'Studies show that over 76% of people view acne negatively in photographs, associating it with poor hygiene or unattractiveness. We need greater public education to dismantle these harmful myths.' Ultimately, she said acne treatment must extend beyond prescriptions.
Scottish Sun
a day ago
- Health
- Scottish Sun
How to get rid of hay fever symptoms by eating 5 everyday foods – plus 6 other pollen bomb non-negotiables
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) HAY fever season is in full swing. And if you're one of the 10million Brits who suffer from constant sneezing, coughing and red itchy eyes as soon as the blossom starts blooming, you'll probably be at your wit's end right about now. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 7 Hay fever can make our lives miserable, with running noses, itchy eyes and a sore throat Credit: Getty Popping antihistamines might be a helpful way to calm down swollen sinuses, but it's not the only solution. The real key to hay fever could be less about tablets, nasal sprays and eye drops — and more about what's going on in your gut. Nutritionist Stephanie Baker tells Sun Health: 'You may not realise it, but your gut health and immune system are intrinsically linked. 'The majority of our immune system resides in the gut, with gut health significantly affecting how our immune system functions. 'Studies even link dysbiosis (an imbalanced ratio of good to bad guys in the gut) with an increased susceptibility to allergies and inflammatory conditions.' In fact, low levels of specific bacteria, such as the strain Bifidobacterium, are correlated with a higher risk for seasonal allergies. It means if you suffer from uncomfortable bloating or excess gas, it could be because the quality and quality of your gut microflora are not as diverse as they could be. So what can you do about it? 'Firstly, take a good quality multi-strain probiotic to help support a healthy and diverse microbiome,' Stephanie says. 'Couple this with an anti-inflammatory diet, like the Mediterranean or paleo diet.' I'm a GP - you've been taking your hay fever meds all wrong and it's making it worse This means lots of vegetables like tomatoes, broccoli and spinach, fruits such as apples, bananas and grapes, nuts like walnuts, cashews and hazelnuts, and herbs including oregano, rosemary and sage. Beans, lentils and pulses are also important, as are whole grains like oats, brown rice, corn, fish and seafood, poultry, and healthy fats like extra virgin olive oil and avocado. 'When building your plate, focus on colour. Variety in colour leads to more micronutrients which is ideal for gut healing,' Stephanie says. 'And if you notice a clear link between a certain food and increased gut symptoms like bloating, remove the suspect ingredient and notice how your gut responds.' Along with showing your gut some TLC, there are some additional must-dos that could help your battle hay fever terror. 1. Pop a quercetin pill 7 Taking a quercetin supplement or increasing your intake of foods high in the antioxidant might help ease symptoms Credit: Getty IF you're looking for a natural route to beat an intense hay fever assault, taking an antioxidant supplement could help to beat long-term stuffiness - but not just any old antioxidant will do. For maximum benefit, try quercetin, which is packed with naturally occurring plant compounds called polyphenols. It is thought to be particularly effective in a 500mg to 1,000mg daily dose. You can couple quercetin with over-the-counter hay fever meds or use it in place of them. 'Quercetin supplementation has been thought to manage the histamine response, which is a main contributor to allergic reactions,' Stephanie says. It can take a few weeks before you start to see results so the earlier you take quercetin the better. Quercetin is also found in onion, asparagus, berries, apples and green tea - so it could be worth increasing your intake of these too! 2. Rinse away the day 7 Washing your clothes, hair and body frequently can remove traces of pollen Credit: Getty IF you commute to work and back, the single best thing you can do when you get home is to fling your clothes in the laundry basket and take a shower. Make sure to wash your hair to remove any traces of pollen that you might have brought home with you. Don't panic - you can skip the cold shower, as warm water is thought to be more effective at loosening allergic particles that can stick to skin. That said, ice cubes can be effective at reducing facial puffiness, especially under the eyes. GUT STUFF Q&A WHAT IS THE GUT AND WHAT DOES IT DO? Farzanah Nasser, gut health nutritionist at Biotiful, says: 'The gut is everything that allows food to travel through your body, starting at the mouth, and includes our gut microbiome, which weighs approximately 1 to 2kg kilos (similar in weight to the brain). 'It also includes accessory organs like the pancreas and liver that help release enzymes to break down and absorb the food that we eat so we can extract the goodness from it.' WHY IS GUT HEALTH IMPORTANT? Farzanah says: 'The gut is important because it can have an impact on every system of our body. It really is a magical system. 'We extract goodness from the foods we eat like vitamins, minerals and amino acids to help with metabolism, hormones, mood and energy. 'The fibre from the food that we cannot break down goes to our gut microbiome, which we utilise as fuel and in return, makes many things for us - including calcium and iron, vitamins, like vitamin B and vitamin K. 'It also produces postbiotics that have an anti-inflammatory impact throughout the body, supporting gut health, mood and skin to name just a few. 'Research is always being published that shows the better we take care of our gut health, the better health outcomes we can expect too.' SIGNS YOUR GUT IS A MESS Farzanah says: 'Signs that your gut is out of whack can include bloating, irregular bathroom habits, burping, and indigestion. 'However, gut issues are not confined to the area - they can be system-wide. 'Low mood, brain fog, inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and hormone imbalances can all also be impacted by gut health too.' DANGERS OF POOR GUT HEALTH Farzanah says: 'Our gut can impact so many systems of the body that supporting it as best we can will have a positive effect on how we feel and function daily. 'Studies have found that supporting the gut has a positive impact on mood and lowering anxiety and stress. 'It can positively impact our hormones, skin and longevity. Up to 70 per cent of our immune system is in the gut, meaning good gut health supports better immunity and reduces inflammation - which is a driver for ageing and chronic disease. 'Supporting our gut also helps us regulate our blood sugar and cholesterol, supporting heart health. 'We would be missing out on many of these benefits if we didn't take care of our gut.' HOW TO IMPROVE GUT HEALTH Farzanah says: 'In a world obsessed with supplements and quick fixes, we've lost sight of the simplest, most effective way to support, or 'reset', our gut - through natural foods that have been enjoyed for centuries. 'It's time to go back to basics. Supporting your gut health does not need to be complicated. 'Including more fermented foods for seven to 14 days, alongside 30 different plants, could significantly improve the abundance of healthy bacteria in your gut. 'Plant foods include everything from fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, herbs, legumes, grains, teas and spices – so there is a lot to choose from. 'Fibre is also crucial - we should all be aiming for 30g a day - as it promotes a healthy microbiome, and helps to keep us fuller for longer and support balanced blood sugar.' She adds: 'Be sure to go outdoors and get some fresh air. Sunlight can influence gut health and help improve your mood and energy levels. 'But also prioritise getting seven to nine hours of sleep, which is important to help maintain gut health, plus a lack of sleep makes us crave more sugar and feel too tired to cook.' 3. Create a barrier 7 Smear a little coconut oil or Vaseline on your lips and around your nostrils to create a barrier Credit: Getty IT might sound obvious, but there are some common sense steps that can dramatically reduce stuffiness and swollen eyes. Firstly, wear a hat to help shield your hair and face, and pop on a pair of wraparound sunglasses as soon as you head out the door. This will help prevent pollen from getting close to your eyes and will deter you from rubbing them. Another quick but effective tip is to smear a little coconut oil or Vaseline on your lips and around your nostrils to create a barrier of entry for pollen. 4. Plan ahead 7 Check the pollen forecasts on the Met Office website Credit: MET Office CHECKING the pollen count is a vital step to keep hay fever in check. The Met Office website displays a real-time five-day forecast for each region of the UK, with an easy-to-understand traffic light system ranging from 'low' to 'very high' so that you can plan ahead. The app is available on iOS and Android devices. 5. Eat 30 plants per week 7 Aim to eat 30 different plants every week Credit: Getty STUDIES show that a diverse diet results in a lower risk of hay fever symptoms. Yet approximately two thirds of all UK adults still don't manage to eat the bare minimum of five portions of fruits and vegetables per day. Health experts now recommend aiming for 30 different plant-based foods per week to truly optimise wellbeing. The good news is, this isn't limited to fruit and veg; it also includes herbs, spices, nuts and seeds. 'I suggest including key anti-inflammatory microbiome supporting foods such as garlic, turmeric, and apples to help support the body's immune response,' Stephanie says. 'Limit your intake of caffeine, alcohol and highly processed foods as they can compromise the microbiome and impact immune health.' 6. Do a spring clean 7 Keeping your house clean can help minimise allergens Credit: Getty A DEEP clean isn't just cathartic; it could also help to ease hay fever symptoms - so don't let those chores build up! Vacuuming behind the sofa, under rugs, and in hard-to-reach corners along with changing your bedding weekly can help to minimise allergens in the house. Keeping the windows and doors closed during peak pollen hours, as well as investing in an air filter, can also help to keep your home pollen-free.
Scottish Sun
09-06-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
The 52p herb that could help prevent Alzheimer's – plus 3 other ways it can benefit your health
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) KNOWN for its strong, pine-like flavour and its use in various dishes, rosemary has a lot more going for it than its scent and taste. The popular herb is starting to gain recognition for its impressive health benefits, especially when it comes to brain health, inflammation and immune function. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 Rosemary has been shown to benefit the brain in several ways Credit: Getty And research published this year suggests it could even help in the fight against Alzheimer's disease - the leading cause of dementia worldwide. Rosemary has previously been linked to memory and mental clarity. In ancient Greece and Rome, students and scholars used rosemary to sharpen concentration and recall, says Dipa Kamdar, senior lecturer in pharmacy practice at Kingston University. Writing for The Conversation, she explains: "Modern science is finding there may have been something in this: in one study, people who inhaled rosemary's scent performed better on memory takes compared to those in an unscented environment." There are several ways rosemary benefits the brain, says Kamdar. Firstly, it stimulates blood circulation, including to the brain, helping deliver more oxygen and nutrients, which may improve mental clarity. It also has calming properties, with some studies suggesting its aroma can reduce anxiety and improve sleep - lower stress means better focus and memory retention. Kamdar adds: "Rosemary contains compounds that interact with the brain's neurotransmitters. One such compound, 1,8-cineole, helps prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, a brain chemical essential for learning and memory. By preserving acetylcholine, rosemary may help support cognitive performance, especially as we age." And rosemary's antioxidants may also help protect brain cells from damage caused by oxidative stress - which is a major factor in cognitive decline. Kamdar says: " Rosemary is rich in phytochemicals, plant compounds with health-enhancing effects. One of the most powerful is carnosic acid, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that helps shield brain cells from harm, particularly from the kinds of damage linked to Alzheimer's disease." Five simple tests that could indicate dementia What are rosemary's benefits beyond brain health? 2 Rosemary may aid digestion by stimulating the liver to produce bile Credit: Getty As well as boosting brain health, studies suggest rosemary may aid digestion by stimulating the liver to produce bile, which helps the body digest fat. In a study with mice, it was shown to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, potentially aiding in the management of IBS and other inflammatory bowel ailments. And rosemary supplementation may also positively impact the gut microbiota, increasing beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacterium and Bacteroidetes, while reducing harmful bacteria like Escherichia coli. Rosemary may also be able to improve immune function. Some studies, particularly in vitro and animal models, suggest that rosemary and its active compounds, like carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid, can influence immune function. Other studies have shown rosemary may promote immune cell activity, such as increasing antibody production or enhancing the activity of immune cells like dendritic cells. Finally, rosemary could prevent certain cancers. Rosemary has been proven to display powerful anticancer efficacy in numerous cancers, including lung, prostate, liver, and breast. Carnosic acid appears to be the plant's primary anticancer component, as it was found in one study to exhibit antiproliferative effects in cancer cells.
Indian Express
08-06-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
‘A dahi, which won't fall, is the dahi you want': Celeb nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar recommends the ‘spoon test' before consuming curd
Celebrity nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar's words of wisdom have helped prominent Bollywood A-listers such as Kareena Kapoor Khan, Alia Bhatt and Varun Dhawan lose weight and transform their physique without compromising on health. In a recent Instagram post, the expert shared a popular 'spoon test' that can determine the efficacy of the dahi (curd) you make at home. In the caption underneath her post, Diwekar listed out a detailed step-by-step recipe to make the best dahi: 'Try it at home. 1. Buy whole milk, preferably buffalo (better for setting thick curd) 2. When you heat it, pour some aside in a small katori (silver, ceramic, mitti – your choice) 3. While it's still little hotter than warm, put a small culture of previously set home set curd to it. 4. Stir 32 times 5. Wait for the milk to settle 6. Cover with a light cloth (I don't use a metal lid) 7. Then store it in a cool and dark place 8. On completion of 8-12 hrs, set another batch and then refrigerate if you don't immediately plan to eat it.' CV Aishwarya, a clinical nutritionist and lecturer at Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, told that the spoon test for curd is a simple yet effective method to assess its consistency, fermentation quality, and microbial activity. It involves scooping a portion of curd with a spoon. If the curd holds its shape and appears firm, it indicates proper setting. If it breaks apart or appears watery, it may suggest poor fermentation or microbial imbalance. 'Curd is formed through the fermentation of milk by lactic acid bacteria. During proper fermentation, these bacteria produce lactic acid, which coagulates the milk proteins, forming a gel-like structure. A well-set curd is more likely to contain viable probiotic cultures, which are essential for gut health. In contrast, poorly fermented or runny curd might lack a sufficient live bacterial count due to contamination or inappropriate incubation conditions,' explained Aishwarya. According to her, the spoon test is an effective and practical preliminary method for assessing the setting quality and probable microbial health of curd. However, for scientific validation of curd efficacy—particularly in research or clinical contexts—additional analyses such as pH testing, microbial culturing, and probiotic viability assays are required. Kanikka Malhotra, consultant dietician and certified diabetes educator revealed that regular consumption of curd after lunch can significantly alter gut microbiota composition due to its probiotic content, primarily Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains. 'These live cultures enhance beneficial bacterial populations, improving microbial diversity and suppressing harmful bacteria like Enterobacteriaceae and Staphylococcus,' she said, adding that the lactic acid bacteria in curd strengthen gut barrier function, reduce inflammation, and promote short-chain fatty acid production, which supports colon health. 'Daily intake sustains transient probiotic effects, such as increased Lactobacillus gasseri and Bifidobacterium lactis, aiding digestion and immune modulation,' mentioned the expert. Curd's probiotics also improve nutrient absorption, reduce bloating, and may lower the risk of inflammatory bowel conditions by balancing gut flora. However, Malhotra noted that individual responses vary based on baseline microbiota and dietary habits. This is to say that pairing curd with fiber-rich meals can amplify these benefits through synergistic prebiotic-probiotic interactions. However, Malhotra also warned of overconsumption, which can also cause digestive discomfort and contribute to weight gain. 'Additionally, excessive calcium intake from curd might slightly reduce the absorption of iron and zinc,' she said. 'Go ahead and add it to your lunch routine, but be mindful of your body's response and adjust accordingly,' To enjoy curd's benefits without drawbacks, she urged moderation. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
Gulf Insider
04-06-2025
- Health
- Gulf Insider
Milk Boosts Gut Diversity, Cheese Lowers Certain Microbes
Milk is a staple in many households. It has long been valued for nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, yet new data hint at another benefit that involves the intricate community of microbes inside the digestive system. Recent findings, led by Dr. Li Jiao from Baylor College of Medicine, shows that milk consumption is connected with an uptick in several helpful bacteria, while cheese may reduce certain microbes important for a balanced intestinal environment. Experts say dairy interacts with the microbiome, which is the mix of microorganisms in the body that help break down nutrients. Milk seems to support a broader range of gut microbes, a sign of a more adaptable gut. Scientists have explored the role of milk in encouraging the growth of bacteria linked to lower inflammation and improved gut barriers. Some researchers suggest this trend could relate to the carbohydrate content in dairy, but details remain under investigation. Several dairy-linked microbes stand out. One is Faecalibacterium, known for producing substances that help maintain gut balance and calm inflammation. Another is Akkermansia, often mentioned for its link to healthy weight and blood sugar control. Investigators say these bacteria can be more abundant in the gut when milk intake rises. Cheese appears to bring different consequences by reducing Bacteroides, which are common gut residents that may influence colon conditions. It also seems to lower Subdoligranulum, a genus thought to play a part in metabolic health. Scientists have noticed that Bifidobacterium, regarded as a probiotic, may increase with certain dairy habits too. This possibility has drawn interest among professionals looking for dietary ways to support digestion. Although yogurt is often praised for its probiotic potential, this study didn't find clear links between yogurt intake and gut microbiota changes. That's likely because participants reported very low yogurt consumption overall, limiting meaningful analysis. Without enough data, researchers couldn't determine whether yogurt had the same effects on key bacteria like Akkermansia or Faecalibacterium. More diverse and higher yogurt intake in future studies may be needed to explore how fermented dairy compares to milk and cheese. A few researchers highlight that milk has more lactose, which might help raise the presence of healthful bacteria. Cheese, produced through fermentation, contains less lactose but includes other elements that might shape the gut in a different way. Dietitians remind people that daily dairy recommendations can differ by age, lifestyle, and health status. Individuals who are sensitive to lactose or prone to certain digestive concerns might need to choose their dairy products carefully. Some nutrition guidelines in the United States advise around three cups of dairy daily, although personal needs vary. Many folks fall short of this amount, which leaves a door open for considering how milk or cheese might add microbial variety. Health experts caution that these findings shouldn't lead to broad assumptions about all dairy products. The study involved a small group of older men, and their average dairy intake was lower than national averages, so the results may not apply to other groups or dietary patterns. Still, the research adds weight to calls for more personalized dietary advice. Instead of focusing only on dairy quantity, future guidelines might need to emphasize the type of dairy product and its effects on gut bacteria balance and overall health. The study included only 34 participants, most of whom were older men. This limited sample size makes it hard to apply the findings to younger people, women, or more diverse populations. Also, the reliance on self-reported food frequency questionnaires introduces some uncertainty. People don't always remember their food habits accurately, which can affect how well their dairy intake matches up with microbiome changes. Studies increasingly point to the idea that food choices affect more than just basic nutrition. Milk consumption, in particular, is now tied to the presence of microbes that could protect against a variety of gut-related issues. 'Dairy consumption may influence host health by modulating the structure and composition of the colonic adherent gut microbiota,' said Dr. Jiao. The broader health connection is an active topic, and future efforts may include trials that examine long-term changes. Researchers plan to learn more about how each type of dairy modifies these microorganisms in people of different ages and backgrounds. They also want to understand the range of nutrients, such as calcium or protein, that might work alongside gut microbes to keep digestion running smoothly. Also read: New COVID Variant NB.1.8.1 Starting To Spread Worldwide: What We Know
